June 26, 2026
Summer heat prep, National Safety Month and more
To help you stay ahead of the curve, The Safety Pulse provides a monthly recap of safety-related news. Each edition brings you the latest trends, resources, regulation updates and more, all in one place. We’re here to help you stay informed, compliant and safe.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA urges summer weather preparations
As summer approaches, OSHA is calling on employers to take action before severe weather and rising temperatures create hazards for employees. Heat illnesses, which rise significantly during the summer months, are among the most common and preventable injuries, and OSHA's heat resources cover everything from acclimatization practices to emergency response.
Updated HazCom compliance deadlines now in effect
OSHA extended the compliance deadlines for its revised Hazard Communication Standard. Employers using products covered under the standard now have until November 20, 2026, to update their HazCom programs, labeling and employee training for chemical substances, and until May 19, 2028, for mixtures. The updates align the standard with the seventh revision of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Until those dates, employers, chemical manufacturers, distributors and importers can comply with either the old or new standards.
OSHA spotlights young workers as summer hiring season begins
With the end of the school year bringing a rush of young employees into the workforce, OSHA is emphasizing the importance of ensuring these new employees understand workplace hazards, their rights as workers and how to speak up about safety concerns. Many summer jobs in construction, landscaping and food service carry significant hazards that young employees may not be trained to recognize. OSHA encourages employers to provide thorough onboarding, hazard-specific training and clear channels for reporting concerns.
The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC)
Registration now open for 2026 Texas Workers' Compensation Conference
The Texas Workers' Compensation Conference returns to San Marcos on September 1-2, 2026. This year's conference, "Navigating the Path: From Basics to Mastery," offers a dual-track format designed to support both newcomers to the field and seasoned professionals looking to deepen their expertise. Registration is $550 per person on or before June 30 and increases to $600 after that date. The conference includes up to eight hours of continuing education credit for adjusters, attorneys and other professionals.
National Safety Council (NSC)
NSC marks 30th anniversary of National Safety Month
The National Safety Council (NSC) designated June as National Safety Month in 1996 and is marking the 30th anniversary of the observance this year. The 2026 campaign is organized around four weekly themes: Moving Safety Forward, Staying Safe on the Roads, Promoting Holistic Worker Health and Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls. NSC released free safety resources each week throughout June that employers can use in toolbox talks, safety meetings and training programs.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH-developed Dustinator reduces airborne silica at mine sites
NIOSH announced that the NIOSH-developed Dustinator reduces airborne dust and silica at mine sites. Developed in collaboration with Benetech engineers and NIOSH researchers, the Dustinator technology addresses silica dust mitigation to help employers meet or exceed regulatory guidelines for silica dust control. Silica exposure is a serious health risk linked to silicosis and other lung diseases, and remains a priority hazard for mining and construction operations. Metal and nonmetal mine operators were required to come into compliance with MSHA's silica exposure rule by April 8, 2026.